Guus Hiddink is planning to use Harry Kewell as an impact player in Australia's crucial Group F clash against Croatia on Thursday.

The Liverpool winger is still working his way back to full fitness following the groin injury he suffered during the FA Cup final and was off the pace in the Socceroos' World Cup opener against Japan.

He was left on the bench for the clash with Brazil but almost changed the game after coming on early in the second half.

Hiddink is now looking for him to make a similar impact in Stuttgart, where Australia need just a point to secure a place in the last 16.

"When he (Kewell) came on against Brazil he was playing a good role and had a chance to make the equaliser," said the Dutchman.

"He is up to doing the big thing but whether it's from the start we will see. Because of the lack of games he has had he is not at the top of his fitness.

"But with his ability he can still be of huge importance, whether it's from the start or later on."